2021 Hyundai Elantra SEL

Yes, we do enjoy the sporty offerings from Hyundai like the Veloster N and the N-Line Elantra (we're eager for the full-on Elantra N), but that doesn't mean we can't appreciate more "normal" cars–like the 2021 Elantra SEL we recently drove.

Sitting just one tick above the base SE trim, the SEL makes do with a 2.0-liter inline-four rated for 147 horsepower and 132 lb.-ft. of torque. That power is then sent to the front wheels through a CVT ("Smartstream Intelligent Variable Transmission" in Hyundai speak).

No turbos, no dual-clutches, no independent rear suspension.

What's this normal-spec Hyundai Elantra like to drive? Keep reading to find out.

So pretty from the back and side, so horrible from the front.  Just like the Sonata.  The Kias are slightly better, but they're still hampered by the shared DNA underneath.

I just picked up a Hyundai Elantra N-Line with a manual (voted with my wallet!). I love it. It feels like a MUCH more expensive car. The sticker on mine was $25k and some change. I went there to just check it out, and walked away with a 3 year lease. The turbo kicks in early and quite strong, and if I am easy on the gas pedal, I can get very close to 40mpg (got 38.5 from CT to NH for the Lemons race)